The Dorchester Collection not only knows how to accommodate us at luxurious hotels around the world, but they also know how to put on a pretty smashing runway show as well.  Sponsoring a cutting edge fashion competition with a generous Dorchester Collection prize, I was invited to watch the final showdown at the infamous Beverly Hills Hotel last Saturday evening. Sitting in the front row, filmed by America’s Top Model, I was transported to Paris, as I viewed innovative fashions and jewelry from the four designers Giuletta, Julian Louie, Siki Im, and Anndra Neen.  Let’s just say I was in good company…the judges included W’s contributing fashion editor Giovanna Battaglia; author and editor Derek Blasberg; award-winning designers Thom Browne and women’s creative director of Calvin Klein Collection Francisco Costa; Georgina Chapman and Keren Craig of Marchesa; Shala Monroque, creative director of Garage Magazine; Moda Operandi co-founder and creative director Lauren Santo Domingo; and Vanity Fair contributing editor Elizabeth Saltzman. 

I was extremely pleased with the winner “Anndra Neen”, jewelry designers and sisters (talent does run is in the genes) Phoebe and Annette Stephens. I simply adored their gold “cage” belt. A must have when you want to rock that that sexy Athenian look!

We were treated to Domaine Chandon and fruity Belvedere cocktails. Although I had to dash out to put on my Halloween costume, I couldn’t help but wish I had done a Cinderella move and left my gold slipper behind. I would have liked to have come back and seen more…but alas, there will a 2012 Dorchester Competition with another round of gifted immortals.